Molecular + Histo
Podiatric Path
Podiatric Pathology
Pathology Services
Podiatric pathology is a specialized field that involves the study of diseases affecting the tissues of the lower leg, including the nail unit, skin, soft tissue, and bone. At our laboratory, we offer comprehensive testing and evaluation for podiatric pathology, utilizing advanced techniques to provide accurate and reliable diagnoses.
Fungal Infections
One common condition that podiatric pathology can help diagnose is onychomycosis, a fungal infection that affects the toenails. Our laboratory uses a variety of special stains to aid in the diagnosis of fungal infections, and we also offer fungal and bacterial speciation by PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to guide the treatment of suspected infections.
Special Staining
In addition to fungal infections, podiatric pathology can also help diagnose potentially fatal neoplasms, such as melanoma and soft tissue tumors. We utilize special stains to detect these conditions, providing early and accurate diagnoses that are critical for successful treatment.
Our laboratory is staffed by highly trained and experienced pathologists and technologists who use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our results. With our comprehensive testing and evaluation services, we aim to help healthcare providers provide the best possible care for their patients with podiatric conditions.
Where Innovation Meets Precision:
Collection Procedure
Ensure proper patient identification by asking the patient for their name, date of birth, and other identifying information as required. Verify patient identification with a government-issued photo ID or another form of identification as required by laboratory policy.
Submission Requirements
Fragments of toenails with or without subungual currettings (clipping, trimmings, removal, etc.) can be submitted in a clean plastic pouch provided by Exova Diagnostics. Sample specification minimum of 10x2x1 in aggregate. Formalin should NOT be added. Label pouch with the patient’s name, date of birth, specimen type/location, and submit with requisition.
Specimen Storage & Transportation
The best recovery is obtained when specimens are stored and transported between 15-30°C dry.
Shipping Guidelines
Pack and ship toenail samples as UN 3373 Biological Substance, Category B, in accordance with the current edition of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations and U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Transporting Infectious Substances Safely.
Collection Kits
Exova specimen collection kits consist of: two plastic pouches for toenail submission; Polyethyleen Zip Biohazard Bag 5cm x 9cm with absorbent pad, specimen labels.
Collection kits can be requested through inquiry@exovadx.com or through your local account manager.
Turnaround Times
Finalized pathology report will be available within 24-48 hours from receipt; Molecular PCR report will be available within 5-7 days.
Rejection Criteria
Specimens not in adherence to laboratory policy regarding proper collection and preservation of specimen will be rejected from acceptance. Rejection criteria include unlabeled samples whereas the patient or sample identification cannot be confirmed, sample container(s) received without any tissue present, toenail curretting received in 10% NBF for PCR testing.